Are you trying to find a place to go in Patna that is both spiritual and cultural? Would you like to see the benefits and wonders that Lord Hanuman has to offer? If so, you ought to pay a visit to Mahavir Mandir, one of Bihar’s most venerated and well-liked temples. The majestic Mahavir Mandir is devoted to Lord Hanuman, the monkey god renowned for his strength, intellect, and devotion. Millions of worshippers flock to the temple each year in hopes of obtaining the blessing and defense of Sankat Mochan Hanuman, the trouble-reliever. If one wishes to feel the heavenly presence of Lord Hanuman in Patna, one must go to the Mandir.
Mahavir Mandir History
The history of Mahavir Mandir is extensive and enthralling, spanning several centuries. The idol of Sankat Mochan Hanuman is said to have been placed in the temple in 1730 AD by a saint by the name of Swami Balanand. Later, in the 19th century, the Bhumihar Brahmin community rebuilt and refurbished the temple, and they also set up a trust to oversee temple operations. Over the years, the temple had a number of renovations and additions, and the renowned architect Sri Ramanand Sinha constructed the current structure in 1987.
The temple, which features a large shrine, a towering shikhara, and marble floors, is a magnificent example of Nagara architecture. One more distinctive characteristic of the temple is that it features two idols of Lord Hanuman, one facing east and the other west. In addition, the temple is well-known for its social and charity endeavors, which include managing a hospital, school, and library for the good of the community.
Mahavir Mandir Significance
For millions of individuals, Mahavir Mandir represents faith and devotion more than merely a temple. Devotees travel from all over India and overseas to this temple, which is regarded as one of the most powerful and sacred shrines of Lord Hanuman. The Sankat Mochan Hanuman idol’s self-manifestation, the temple’s endless supply of Naivedyam (food offerings), and the temple’s glimpse of Lord Rama are among the other notable miraculous and enigmatic occurrences.
The temple is renowned for its unique poojas and rituals, which include the Ashtottara Shatanamavali (recitation of 108 names of Lord Hanuman), the Chola (offering of garments), and the Sindoor (vermilion). In addition, the temple serves as a center for religious and cultural events, including the celebration of several holidays, the planning of musical and spiritual gatherings, and the advancement of Vedic and Sanskrit education.
Festivals Celebrated at Mahavir Mandir
Devotees can rejoice and celebrate a variety of festivals and celebrations at Mahavir Mandir. Throughout the year, the temple plans and conducts a number of festivals that are distinguished by unique poojas, décor, music, and cultural events. Among the principal celebrations held at the temple are:
Ramnavami: Lord Rama, the master of Lord Hanuman and the incarnation of Lord Vishnu, was born on this day. The festival is honored by fasting, chanting, and presenting flowers and fruits to Lord Hanuman and Lord Rama throughout the months of March or April. The idols of Lord Hanuman and Lord Rama are also paraded through the temple with musicians and devotees accompanying them.
Hanuman Jayanti: Lord Hanuman, the son of the wind god and a follower of Lord Rama, was born on this day. Offers of Sindoor, Chola, and Naivedyam to Lord Hanuman mark the celebration, which takes place in April or May. Thousands of worshippers attend a special pooja and aarti held by the temple in honor of Lord Hanuman.
Dussehra: On this day in history, Lord Rama slew the demon king Ravana and reinstated the rule of justice and fairness. The effigies of Ravana, Kumbhakarna, and Meghnad—which stand for the triumph of good over evil—are burned during the celebration, which takes place in September or October. The temple also offers sweets and prasad to the pilgrims in addition to performing a special pooja and aarti for Lord Hanuman and Lord Rama.